Find Hepatitis test
in Annapolis, MD.

Who should get tested for hepatitis?

Hepatitis is a serious health concern that can affect anyone, but certain individuals are at a higher risk. According to the CDC, those who should get tested for hepatitis include individuals who have been exposed to the virus, people who have had unprotected sex with multiple partners, intravenous drug users, healthcare workers, and individuals who have received blood transfusions before 1992. Additionally, people born between 1945 and 1965, often referred to as baby boomers, are five times more likely to have hepatitis C and should also get tested.

Importance of getting tested

Getting tested for hepatitis is crucial as it can lead to severe liver damage if left untreated. The CDC reports that many people with hepatitis do not know they have it because they do not feel ill. Early detection through testing allows for timely treatment and can prevent the spread of the virus to others. It can also help prevent potential complications such as cirrhosis, liver cancer, and liver failure.

Hepatitis testing options in Annapolis, MD:

Urgent care and walk-in clinics

There are 14 urgent care and walk-in clinics in and around Annapolis that offer hepatitis testing. These include Cedar Hill Urgent Care in Washington, DC, and Ouch! Urgent Care in Elkridge, MD. Urgent care centers offer same-day and next-day appointments, which can be booked through Solv's website and mobile app.

Primary care providers

Primary care providers in Annapolis also offer hepatitis testing. Regular check-ups with your primary care provider can include routine screenings for hepatitis, especially if you fall into one of the high-risk categories.

Free STD testing and community health centers

Community health centers and free STD testing clinics in Annapolis provide an affordable option for hepatitis testing. These centers aim to make testing accessible to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.

At-home testing

At-home testing kits for hepatitis are also available. These kits can be ordered online and allow you to take the test in the privacy of your own home. The samples are then sent to a lab for analysis, and results are usually available within a few days.

Prevalence of hepatitis in Annapolis

Annapolis, located in Anne Arundel County, has seen a steady number of hepatitis cases over the years. According to the CDC, the county has a similar hepatitis prevalence rate to the national average. However, it's important to note that the actual number of hepatitis cases may be higher as many people with the virus are unaware they have it.

Risk factors related to hepatitis in Annapolis

Risk factors for hepatitis in Annapolis are similar to those in other parts of the country. These include unprotected sex with multiple partners, intravenous drug use, and exposure to infected blood or body fluids. Additionally, individuals who have received a tattoo or piercing with unsterilized equipment are also at risk.

Other STDs in Annapolis

In addition to hepatitis, other STDs such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and syphilis are also prevalent in Annapolis. The rates of these STDs are comparable to the national averages. Similar to hepatitis, these STDs can be effectively managed with early detection and treatment. Therefore, regular testing is recommended, especially for those in high-risk groups.